The Lambeth Palace press office confirmed that the meeting took place on October 15, but would not disclose details of the conversation between Williams and Duncan, saying it was "one of many private meetings" the archbishop hosts at his London residence.

Duncan was deposed on September 19 by Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori with the consent of the Episcopal Church's House of Bishops.

Addressing the media on October 17 at All Souls Church, Langham Place, London, Duncan said he maintains regular contact with the Archbishop of Canterbury but stopped short of revealing that a meeting had taken place. "I have tried in the last five years never to surprise him," he said. "He is certainly aware of my presence here in the United Kingdom. He is informed about our situation. He is attempting to lead in what are clearly uncharted times."